N. Wilson, S. Gelbier. BDA price £6.95; pp 98 ISBN

9781291723861

This handy sized book is the first in a series of five transcripts documenting witness seminars held at the British Dental Association. It gives an account of the regulation of the dental profession by the General Dental Council from a mixture of highly experienced individuals. The book begins by introducing members in attendance at the meeting, allowing the reader to understand and appreciate the great wealth of both knowledge and understanding of the regulatory body the attendees possess. Individuals have held many different positions including roles within the Royal College of Surgeons of England, the General Dental Council and the Department of Health.

The book then navigates into a structured discussion around the regulation of dentistry, ranging from regulation prior to and after the birth of the General Dental Council to the impact of regulation upon both the academic and clinical profession. Historical dates are utilised and interwoven into discussion to give a sense of the development time frame and the chronological order of significant events.

Overall, this is an exciting and innovative piece of literature, allowing members of the profession (and also non-professional members) to understand the history and development of the regulatory body of dentistry and will remain a valuable, timeless, literature piece.